Chilean miner rescue & psychological skills for survival

People around the world experienced a range of emotions as the first trapped Chilean miner emerged just hours ago. For perhaps the first time in history, thanks in part to advanced equipment and scientists, miners have survived for over 2 months, buried nearly a half mile below the surface.

I happened to walk into a Lifetime Fitness lounge tonight when the first rescuer was preparing to be lowered via a 28 inch wide capsule. I sat in awe as live video was broadcast of the actual chamber in which the miners had lived. Another gentlemen, sitting silently in the lounge, discreetly wiped a tear from his eye as one miner hugged his wife and son. My Facebook wall (see initial comments posted on the AllWorld Performance page on Facebook below) lit up with nocturnal friends in the United States wanting to stay awake till the last man surfaced; although, we’re told it could take up to 40 hours.

What does it take, mentally, to survive in such closed and isolated quarters for 69 days? And to recover in the aftermath? And what may we be able to learn and apply to our own performances and lives from such insight?

Add yourself to my blog subscriber list, follow my Twitter stream (www.twitter.com/JoeMannion), or “like” the AllWorld Performance, LLC, page on Facebook to be immediately notified of forthcoming blog entries exploring these possibilities. I’ll also be recruiting a psychologist friend or two (e.g., an expert on PTSD) to add their insights and observations.

Where were you when you first heard the news or saw the video? Please share your story, including your city or country, in the comments below!

Comments about the Chilean miner rescue on the AllWorld Performance, LLC, page on Facebook

I was on it at my bed room and then cartel. Biggest rescue efforts in human history. And certainly a poll boast for the Chilean president who was there for 24 hours.
Can’t believe people can live in a deep hole for 2 months. No sun, flowers, grass, cars, sex, etc. Just can not believe how those miners endured it? I salute those who made the rescue efforts for two months. They are true heroes of Chile.

Thank you so much for sharing Shar! We have a lot to learn about how they did it and about what they may experience going forward. I’ll being doing some research for sure, which will prevent getting these blog entries out immediately. Exploration and discussion take time in science (perhaps especially in psychology) but are part of the excitement, too. Would be fascinating to hear more comments like yours from people! (crossing my fingers)

BTW, I was wondering how long the Chilean president was going to stay there – your insight is the first I’ve heard, wow!!